Commerce City, CO vs. Thornton, CO: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Commerce City vs Thornton. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Commerce City vs Thornton in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical housing expenses compare between Commerce City and Thornton:
| Housing Type | Commerce City | Thornton |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,450 | $1,600 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $450,000 | $500,000 |
🏆 Winner: Commerce City has slightly lower housing costs across the board.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
In Commerce City, expect to pay around $180 per month for basic utilities like electricity, heating, water, and garbage for a 915 sq ft apartment. Costs are similar in Thornton, averaging $190 monthly.
Both cities experience cold winters and mild summers, so heating bills tend to be higher than cooling. Xcel Energy offers money-saving programs like time-of-use rates in both locations.
🏆 Winner: Utility costs are comparable, with Commerce City edging out Thornton by about $10 per month.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
For a family of four, groceries in Commerce City cost around $810 per month. Prices are about 5% higher in Thornton, totaling $850 monthly for the same standard basket of goods. Eating out is also pricier in Thornton, with average meal prices about $2-3 higher.
🏆 Winner: Commerce City takes the lead again, with notably lower food costs.
4. Taxes and Fees
Both cities have a sales tax rate of 8.5%. However, property taxes differ:
- Commerce City’s property tax rate is 0.86% of assessed value
- Thornton’s rate is slightly higher at 0.92%
In Commerce City, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash, ranging from $200-400 per month. Thornton HOAs are comparable, typically $180-350 monthly.
🏆 Winner: Commerce City, thanks to its lower property tax rate.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Expense Category | Commerce City | Thornton |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR Home) | $1,875 | $2,083 |
| Utilities | $180 | $190 |
| Groceries | $810 | $850 |
| Transportation | $70 | $60 |
| Taxes (0.9% Effective) | $338 | $375 |
| Misc Expenses | $400 | $400 |
| Estimated Monthly Total (pre-tax) | $3,673 | $3,958 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While costs are key, it’s important to consider lifestyle factors too. Commerce City offers a quieter, more suburban feel with larger lots and more open space. Thornton provides an easier commute to Denver and has more public transportation options.
Commerce City averages 2°F cooler in summer than Thornton. But both cities get chilly in winter, with lows around 18°F.
7. FAQ
- Is Commerce City more affordable than Thornton? Yes, Commerce City has a lower overall cost of living, with cheaper housing, food, and property taxes.
- Which city has lower rent? Typical rent is about $150 less per month in Commerce City compared to Thornton.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Commerce City home prices are roughly 10% lower than in Thornton for a comparable property.
8. Conclusion
For most lifestyles and budgets, Commerce City comes out ahead in this cost of living comparison. Families looking for affordable suburban living will appreciate Commerce City’s lower housing, grocery, and tax expenses. However, Thornton can be a great fit for commuters or those who prefer a slightly more urban environment.
Budgeting in a new city? Check out our Monthly Budget Examples for Commerce City Residents. Or get an in-depth look with our Cost of Living in Commerce City (2025 Guide).